Queensland and the world will today celebrate the invaluable contributions of midwives everywhere.
Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union (QNMU) Secretary Beth Mohle said today’s International Day of the Midwife (IDM) would acknowledge the important role midwives play in communities throughout Queensland and around the world.
Ms Mohle said the theme of today’s celebrations was 100 Years of Progress – and would mark 100 years of the International Confederation on Midwives (ICM).
The ICM supports, represents and works to strengthen professional associations of midwives throughout the world.
The ICM will hold online parties for midwives around the globe to celebrate the milestone. QNMU members will hold events in workplaces and the community to acknowledge the important contributions of midwives both during the pandemic and every day.
“The pandemic has really shone a spotlight on the importance of midwives,” Ms Mohle said.
“During COVID-19, midwives have played an integral role in ensuring expectant mothers, mothers and newborns were safe and supported.
“Today we ask Queenslanders to remember and celebrate the extraordinary contributions midwives have made to their family, friends and community.
“Today is an opportunity to say thank you to Queensland midwives for the invaluable role they play in our communities, both during the pandemic and every day.”
Ms Mohle said midwives were passionate about protecting women and their families. She asked Queenslanders to please take the time to recognise the valuable contributions midwives make.
“Midwives are part of the glue that binds our communities,’’ Ms Mohle said.
“Having a known midwife has been proven by extensive research to decrease preterm birth, early pregnancy loss and low birth rates, increase normal birth and long-term positive health and wellbeing of women and babies.
“They provide care and support during pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period. Today we acknowledge the importance of their role both here and around the world.’’
To take part in ICM online celebrations visit
www.internationalmidwives.org
Virtual #IDM2022 parties will be held twice to accommodate international time zones world-wide.
Media contact: 0422 550 278